A cool mountain breeze and sunny sky welcomed the traditional Fourth of July Parade in Rico.
Hundreds turned out to enjoy the patriotic floats on Colorado Highway 145, which was temporarily closed for the event. The crowd then attended a community picnic of burgers, bratwurst, and barbecue at the Rico Fire Station. Navajo Tacos were served at town hall as a fundraiser for scholarships.
“This town shines brightest on Independence Day,” said local Tom Clark.
Every year, the Clarks and the Turren families put together an elaborate parade float. This year, it was “The Eagle has Landed” honoring the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Longtime local Kay Crane was the Grand Marshal, and Korean War veteran Larry Fitzwater also was honored.
The Four Corners Community Band performed a free concert at the picnic. The fireworks kick off at 9 p.m.
At the Enterprise Bar and Grill, the Rico Blues Project performed, and there were log-splitting and watermelon-eating contests. At the park were a duck race, volleyball games and horseshoes. The festive crowd visited a craft fair, the Rico Museum and a local art show.
On Friday at 9 p.m. is the popular Rico Light parade. Dogs, bikes, kids and adults are welcome. Meet at 8:45 p.m. at the corner of Soda and Silver Streets. Decorate yourself, pets, and bikes with anything that lights, sparkles or glows. There will be an ice cream party at the Rico Fire House after the light parade.
The music continues into the weekend with Cortez band The Moetones performing on Saturday at 3 p.m. at the Enterprise.
For the July Fourth weekend, Colorado Department of Transportation and contractor Williams Construction of Norwood halted efforts to rebuild a section of the rockslide-damaged stretch of Colorado 145 between Dolores and Rico. Travelers experienced brief delays and one-lane alternating traffic at the site.